Hot Stone Massage
A hot stone massage, as the name implies, is a method of massaging the body, by the use of water-heated stones. This is one of the oldest massage methods which has been used in treating various ailments for decades. Heat has been used for therapeutic purposes as far back as the Roman baths, and this is just another application of heat therapy. Modern hot stone massages might have been developed from Native American ritualistic healing with stones fire-heated. This massage has become a favorite of spa goers in recent years, due to the amazing benefits it has on their general wellbeing.
A hot stone massage is carried out by specialized therapists who are skilled in handling the hot stones efficiently.
Stone Types
The types of stones used are flat and smoothly rounded stones with high heat retaining capacity. Basalts are often favored for common therapy due to their heat retention; cold marbles are used for an alternate hot and cold therapy. Riverbed stones which have been well weathered and smoothened are also used since the natural processes have worn their surfaces to harmless softness. Jade stones are probably the most effective for hot stone massages. They can be used effectively for both hot and cold therapies. Their iron and magnesium richness has been employed by ancient Chinese medicine for centuries for deeply therapeutic healing. Jade as a gem stone is related to a lot of positive energy and spiritual balance and is a much more expensive and preferable alternative to basalts.
What to Expect
The massage is performed on a massage table, mostly unclothed and with the heated stones placed along acupressure points. Specialized shapes of stones are used for the a massage, for different parts of the body. The stones are first wet by immersing them in water, then heated with a thermos-regulated electric device to a specific temperature. Correct temperature is imperative to avoid burns or ineffective heat. . Soothing Oils could be applied on the body before placing the stones, but not always. A sheet could be placed as a barrier between your skin and the stone to ensure deep heat penetration. The stones are also moved all around the body, in a kind of full body massage to relax muscles and relieve stress all over. For Jade massages, Cold stones are placed immediately after a hot stone help in the further soothing of aches and better circulation.
Benefits of Hot Stone
The hot stones open up energy pathways within the body for the release of toxins. Hot stone massages help with for relief from aching muscles and improved blood circulation. The massage is functional in alleviating day to day stresses, and helps with improved focus, memory, and clarity. The nervous system benefits from a hot stone massage as it improves the overall nervous health. The massage treats arthritis, fibromyalgia, insomnia and depression along with the previously mentioned advantages. An added benefit of a Jade stone massage is that you get to slow down the rate of cell aging with a well-done massage and strengthen your body’s defense mechanism.
Before getting a hot stone massage, it is advisable to get clearance from your physician, especially if pregnant.